Manchester City manager Pep Guardiola has stated that Jack Grealish will regain his place in the starting lineup on a consistent basis once his performances improve.
The 28-year-old England midfielder, who started 41 games for City in the previous season’s Treble-winning campaign, has seen limited playing time this season, featuring in only 19 games, including seven in the Premier League.
Guardiola emphasized that Grealish remains the same player under his management, and the team’s style of play has not undergone significant changes. However, Grealish’s performance level has impacted his playing time this season.
Despite his importance to the team, Grealish has had fewer opportunities in the Premier League, with only four of his 19 starts coming in domestic competitions. His last league start was against Sheffield United on December 30, and he was subsequently benched for the win against Bournemouth.
Guardiola reiterated the need for Grealish’s contributions to the team, highlighting his unique qualities. However, the manager emphasized that Grealish must elevate his performance over the coming months to secure a regular starting role.
Acknowledging the demanding nature of City’s squad, Guardiola stressed that players must quickly adapt and perform at a high level, with no room for an extended period to regain rhythm. The manager emphasized the importance of training sessions and players’ commitment to earning their place in the starting lineup.